Whiskey brands, Irish & Scotch wiskey, history.

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Whisky, whiskey or wiskey!

Whisky is one of the oldest spirits in the world, favoured by drinkers across the world. The nature of its production means that it is also one of the most complex alcoholic drinks in the world with a delightful combination of aromas that defies description.

There are basically two types of whisky: Blended and single-malt. A blended whisky is a combination of malt and grain whiskys, mostly the latter. A malt whisky is made with barley which is "malted" (roasted) before going through the fermentation and distillation process. Grain whisky is cheaper as it is made from wheat or maize. Because of the different processses and the different types of water used in the production of whisky each malt has its own distinct flavour, or rather, combination of flavours.

A very brief history of whisky
The first record of whisky being sold in Scotland is in 1494, however the first record of distilling grain is in Ireland in 1100. Which means that the Irish claim they invented whisky. It’s not safe to say this in Scotland.
The production of whisky was illegal in Scotland until the first licensed distillery opened in 1823. A great deal of whisky smuggling went on before and after that, and still goes on today.

Moonshine
The common term for distilled alcohol produced in a similar way to whisky but made from corn mash. Badly manufactured moonshine can contain a lot of impurities and may be quite toxic. The image of moonshine is quite romantic, the name arose in the UK but has become associated with the Southern United States.

References
Scotch Whisky Experience
Copper Moonshine Stills
Still Drinkin'

Last updated July 13, 2007 10:52 AM